Entering Germany from February 2025. News. Due to the migration crisis, German authorities are enforcing strict border checks. These checks apply to everyone, whether traveling by car, bus, or train. All travelers must be ready to show proof of identity. Here are the border crossings with the longest delays and the rules for carrying cigarettes, alcohol, and cash.
Entering Germany from February 2025: Border control
Since 2015, Germany has focused its main border checks on entries from Austria. In October 2023, the German Federal Ministry of the Interior added permanent controls at several crossings with Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland. From September 2024, these checks were extended to borders with France, Denmark, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg.
Read also: Deutschlandticket price increase in 2025: What’s the new cost?
Austria, Poland, Czech Republic, Switzerland: Where do the biggest traffic jams occur
Border controls have been in place for years and often cause long queues and delays, especially during busy travel periods. According to ADAC, the following border crossings experience the most significant issues:
Austria
- Suben (A3 Linz – Passau)
- Walserberg (A8 Salzburg – Munich)
- Kiefersfelden (A93 Kufstein – Rosenheim)
Waiting times can stretch to several hours during peak tourist seasons.
Poland
- At the A12 crossing from Frankfurt on the Oder (A2), queues often span several kilometers.
- Update: Starting January 15, 2025, Poland has added extra border checks due to a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak on a farm in Brandenburg.
Switzerland
- The Basel, Weil am Rhein (A5), and Kreuzlingen-Konstanz crossings frequently experience traffic jams.
Czech Republic
- On the A17 Prague-Dresden route, heavy checks at Breitenau-Schönwald often lead to traffic jams.
- Similar delays occur at Bavarian crossings like Selb, Schirnding, and Waidhaus.
How are checks carried out at the German border?
Border checks in Germany are conducted by the German Federal Police, often with support from the military or authorities from neighboring countries. These checks involve:
- Document verification: Ensuring the authenticity of IDs and passports for drivers and passengers.
- Database comparisons: Cross-checking traveler information against wanted persons lists.
- Vehicle and goods inspections: Preventing the illegal entry of prohibited items.
Travelers should anticipate possible delays and stay updated on the current regulations at border crossings.
Winter vacation is coming
Several German states have scheduled their winter breaks for February 2025. Here are the dates:
- Berlin: February 3 – February 8
- Brandenburg: February 3 – February 8
- Bremen: February 3 – February 4
- Mecklenburg-Vorpommern: February 3 – February 14
- Lower Saxony: February 3 – February 4
- Saarland: February 24 – March 4
- Saxony: February 17 – March 1
- Thuringia: February 3 – February 8
Current limits on the transport of alcohol and cigarettes
When traveling to Germany from Romania, it’s important to be aware of the restrictions on alcohol, tobacco, and cash transportation.
Alcohol Limits:
You can bring the following quantities:
- Spirits (e.g., whiskey, vodka): 10 liters
- Sweet alcoholic beverages: 10 liters
- Intermediate products (e.g., sherry, port): 20 liters
- Sparkling wine: 60 liters
- Beer: 110 liters
Note: You can combine these proportionally. Smuggling alcohol can lead to fines or imprisonment of up to 5 years.
Tobacco Limits:
You can transport one of the following:
- 800 cigarettes
- 400 cigarillos
- 200 cigars
- 1 kg of tobacco
Make sure to comply with these regulations to avoid penalties.
How much cash can you carry into Germany?
If you are traveling to Germany and carrying 10,000 euros or more (or its equivalent in another currency), you must declare it to customs and tax authorities. Failure to follow this rule can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Confiscation of funds
- Fines or other legal penalties
During checks, if the cash exceeds the limit, authorities may detain the money until they verify its source. To avoid issues, ensure you report any large amounts of cash before crossing the border.
Read also: Germany’s 2025 tax reform: Who will benefit from wage changes?
Food transport in Germany
When traveling within the EU, you can carry meat and dairy products as long as they are for personal use. The same rule applies to plants or plant products, like cut flowers, fruits, or vegetables, provided they:
- Originate from EU member states
- Are free from pests or diseases
This makes it easy to transport everyday food or plants within the EU, as long as they meet these conditions.